Tapeworm Infections

Tapeworm infections in humans usually occur by consuming food or water infected with tapeworm eggs or larvae. Some tapeworms may exit the body through the stool, but other tapeworms can attach themselves to the wall of the intestine and cause irritation.

Cause

• Humans often contract tapeworms by eating undercooked beef, pork or freshwater fish that's infected with tapeworm larvae. Once consumed, the tapeworm larvae mature into adults in the intestines.

Symptoms

• Many people with tapeworm infections do not show symptoms, but some may experience weakness, nausea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea and weight loss. More severe symptoms include bacterial infection, cysts, fever, neurological problems and allergic reactions to the larvae.

Treatment

• Tapeworm infections are treated with medications that are toxic to tapeworms, such as praziquantel or albendazole. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory steroids if you have cysts. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases to remove the worms from your lungs or other organs.

Prevention

• Staying away from raw or undercooked pork, beef or fish is the best way to prevent a tapeworm infection. Tapeworms can also be transmitted through contact with infected feces. Wash your hands after using the toilet and before eating.

Tips

• Cook meat at 150 degrees F to kill tapeworm eggs and larvae. Freezing meat for at least 12 hours and fish for at least 24 hours is another way to kill tapeworm eggs and larvae.